It's bound to happen: the homesickness fades, the classwork becomes less overwhelming, all's well with the roommates, and suddenly—ugh—you're running a fever and your new best friend is named Kleenex. Getting sick is miserable in general, but it's even more depressing when there's nobody around who wants to take care of you! Let's be honest, if the situation were reversed, would you really want to spend all day cooking soup for your roommate and catching her germs? Doubtful.

Handling sickness on your own is easier when you prepare in advance. I keep an endless stock supply of Advil, tissues, cough drops, tea, and comfort entertainment (romantic comedies and Boy Meets World DVDs), so whether I'm anticipating a cold or it's already hit me, I won't be forcing a friend to go out at midnight searching for medicine.

The truth us, when you're away from home, you really do have to be responsible for yourself. Nobody can blame you for getting sick, but you're in control of how you handle it! So if you feel like you might be coming down with the flu, be proactive. Go to the school health center and get whatever medication you need, because nobody else is going to do that for you. That's especially true if something feels seriously off—don't take your health lightly!

Finally, I know it's boring and uncomfortable to be sick and stuck in a dorm, but be respectful of your roommates. I live in a suite, so my roommates and I have our own bedrooms. If any of us are sick, we pretty much stay in our own rooms so we don't contaminate the rest of the suite. If you do share a room, be considerate and spray disinfectant after you touch things. And please, please don't leave gross used tissues all over the floor!